May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to reaffirm our shared commitment to ensuring that all people with mental health challenges have access to the rights, supports, and services they need to live, recover, and thrive in their communities.
At the Alliance for Rights and Recovery, we continue to push for policies and investments that strengthen community-based services and uphold the dignity, autonomy, and choices of the people we serve. Our work is grounded in the belief that recovery is possible for everyone, and that people should have the opportunity to live the lives they desire with the supports that work best for them.
At the same time, we recognize that the past few years have brought significant uncertainty. From shifting policies to ongoing threats to services and civil rights protections, many individuals, families, and providers are navigating an increasingly complex landscape. Despite these challenges, the Alliance remains committed to moving forward. Through advocacy, education, training, direct services, and community events, we will continue to push for progress, reduce stigma, and demonstrate every day that people with mental health challenges can and do recover.
As part of this month’s efforts, we also encourage our community to take part in spreading awareness and supporting one another. The New York State Office of Mental Health has released its “Be Well May” social media toolkit, which offers simple, inclusive messages and mental wellness tips designed to help New Yorkers feel more grounded, connected, and supported. These resources remind us that mental health is part of everyday life and that small actions can make a meaningful difference.
We encourage you to share these messages in whatever way works best for you, whether through social media, newsletters, or conversations in your community. Together, we can spark reflection, offer encouragement, and help ensure that no one feels alone.
This Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s continue to stand together to build a system rooted in recovery, equity, and hope. See below and attached for more information on OMH’s “Be Well May” Toolkit.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. This year, we want to make it easier for you to spread awareness and mental wellness tips with New Yorkers. We are excited to share our Be Well May social media toolkit!
These posts use information and tips from our Be Well initiative to remind New Yorkers throughout the month that mental health is part of everyday life. Each message offers simple, inclusive ways to feel more grounded and connected. The goal is to spark reflection, offer encouragement, and help people know they’re not alone. Small actions can make a big difference, and together we can make space for healing, growth, and hope.
We invite you to share these messages in whatever way works for you. You can post them on social media, add them to your newsletters, or share during gatherings.